A north-east cafe which was badly hit by flooding has marked a significant milestone on its road to reopening.
Joiners have started work inside Rock Salt and Snails in Ballater, and owners Neil and Davinia Massie are now firmly focused on reopening in time for the summer season.
Since opening in March 2012, the cafe has become a popular stop-off point for both locals and visitors.
But after the devastating floods in December, the couple have had to start again.
And thanks to their determination, and the backing of locals, the pair are raring to reopen and welcome customers back.
Mrs Massie said: “The community support and feedback has been very good, and a great source of inspiration.
“Some days, when I was feeling down earlier in the year, the messages from customers gave me strength to see there was a future and to go on.
“Around us, there are signs that businesses in Ballater are getting back on their feet, shops are opening again and I think we all feel so much better each time another shop reopens.
“The business association has also been incredibly proactive and is doing a superb job.”
Mrs Massie hopes the Bridge Street coffee shop will reopen its doors next month.
She added: “It’s something very positive for us to focus on, and we really feel that our reopening day is on its way now.”
Richard Watts, of Ballater Business Association, said: “We’re delighted that work has commenced on refurbishing the interior of Rock Salt and Snails and that the business is set to be up and running in time for the summer tourist season.
“It’s another indication of just how hard people have worked and how far the village has progressed in only a matter of months.”
